Are you looking for a healthy and low-calorie ingredient to add to your meals? Look no further than cooked mushrooms! With only 28 calories per 100 grams of cooked mushrooms (from frozen, fat not added in cooking), they are an excellent addition to any diet.
But mushrooms aren't just low in calories. They are also loaded with important nutrients, including B vitamins, potassium, and selenium. Plus, they have been linked to numerous health benefits, from boosting the immune system to reducing the risk of heart disease.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about cooked mushrooms, from their nutritional value to the best ways to cook and serve them. So let's get started!
Calories in 100 g of Cooked Mushrooms
As mentioned in the introduction, 100 grams of cooked mushrooms (from frozen, fat not added in cooking) contain only 28 calories. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. Of course, the exact number of calories will depend on the type of mushrooms you use and how you cook them. For example, adding butter or oil will increase the calorie count, while using low-calorie cooking methods like steaming or grilling will keep the calorie count lower.
Benefits of Eating Cooked Mushrooms
In addition to being low in calories, cooked mushrooms are also packed with nutrients and have been linked to numerous health benefits. For one thing, they are a great source of B vitamins, which are essential for healthy metabolism and energy production. They also contain potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. But perhaps most importantly, mushrooms are loaded with antioxidants, which can help to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. This, in turn, has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
Cooking and Serving Suggestions for Cooked Mushrooms
If you've never cooked mushrooms before, you might be wondering where to start. Fortunately, they are quite versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the simplest methods is to sauté them in a bit of oil or butter until they are golden brown and tender. They can also be roasted, grilled, or even used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes. As for serving suggestions, cooked mushrooms can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to omelets, salads, pasta dishes, and more. Or, they can simply be enjoyed on their own as a healthy and satisfying snack.
Mushroom Varieties You Can Cook
There are dozens of different mushrooms that can be cooked and enjoyed. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Button mushrooms
- Portobello mushrooms
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Oyster mushrooms
- Maitake mushrooms
- Cremini mushrooms
- Chanterelle mushrooms
Each of these mushrooms has a slightly different flavor and texture, so it's worth trying a few to see which ones you prefer.
How to Store Cooked Mushrooms
If you have leftover cooked mushrooms, you'll want to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and tasty. The best way to do this is to transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate them as soon as possible. Cooked mushrooms will typically last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, but they are best eaten within the first 1-2 days. You can also freeze cooked mushrooms for longer storage, but they may become a bit mushy when thawed.
Cooked Mushrooms vs. Raw Mushrooms
While cooked mushrooms are certainly delicious, you might be wondering if they are healthier than raw mushrooms. The truth is, both cooked and raw mushrooms are packed with nutrients and offer health benefits. However, some studies have found that certain nutrients may be more bioavailable (easier for your body to absorb) when the mushrooms are cooked. For example, cooking mushrooms in a bit of oil can help to release their fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants. That said, raw mushrooms are also an excellent choice and can be enjoyed in salads, sandwiches, or as a crunchy snack.
Gluten-Free and Low-Calorie Cooked Mushrooms
If you are following a gluten-free or low-calorie diet, cooked mushrooms are an excellent ingredient to incorporate into your meals. Not only are they naturally gluten-free, but they are also low in calories, making them a great alternative to higher-calorie ingredients like pasta or rice. Plus, they are very low in carbohydrates, making them a good choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.
Cooked Mushrooms for Weight Loss and Healthy Eating
If you are looking to lose weight or simply eat healthier, adding cooked mushrooms to your diet is an excellent strategy. Not only are they low in calories and high in nutrients, but they are also very satiating, meaning they can help you feel fuller for longer. This can help to reduce overall calorie intake and support healthy weight loss.
Protein and Other Nutrients in Cooked Mushrooms
In addition to vitamins and minerals, cooked mushrooms are also a good source of protein. For example, one cup of sliced portobello mushrooms contains around 3 grams of protein. This might not sound like much, but it can add up over the course of the day, especially if you are vegetarian or vegan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Mushrooms
Q: Are cooked mushrooms good for you? A: Yes! Cooked mushrooms are loaded with nutrients and have been linked to numerous health benefits, from boosting the immune system to reducing the risk of heart disease. Q: What is the best way to cook mushrooms?
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Mushrooms
1. How many calories are in 100 grams of cooked mushrooms?
There are 28 calories in 100 grams of cooked mushrooms, with no added fat during cooking. This makes mushrooms a low-calorie and nutritious food choice for those watching their caloric intake.
2. Can I cook frozen mushrooms?
Yes, you can cook frozen mushrooms. It is best to allow the mushrooms to thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking them, but you can also cook them straight from frozen. However, the texture of the mushrooms may be slightly softer than fresh mushrooms.
3. What are the health benefits of eating mushrooms?
Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, but high in fiber and essential nutrients, such as vitamin D, B vitamins, potassium, and selenium. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may have protective health benefits against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic illnesses.
4. How should I store cooked mushrooms?
Cooked mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen, but their texture may change once thawed.
5. How can I add cooked mushrooms to my meals?
Cooked mushrooms can be added to many dishes, such as omelets, soups, stir-fries, and pasta dishes. You can also use them as a low-carb and low-calorie alternative to bread or pizza crusts.